Enchanted Island

Enchanted Island, directed by Allan Dwan and released in 1958, is a vibrant picture that marinates the screen with adventure, romance and the untamed life of the South Pacific. The film stars Dana Andrews, Jane Powell, and Don Dubbins in pivotal roles, all of them displaying capable performances that keep viewers enthralled throughout. The movie is based on Herman Melville's first novel, "Typee: A Peep at Polynesian Life," thus adding a literary sheen to the captivating storyline.

In the magnetic center of the narrative is the unforgettable figure of Abner Bedford, played by Dana Andrews. Abner is a sailor aboard a whaling ship in the 1840s, a rugged individual tired of the overly strict discipline enforced by Captain Vangs (Ted de Corsia). Alongside him is fellow sailor Tom (Don Dubbins), a younger figure who looks up to Abner like an older brother. Together, during a hunting expedition in the South Pacific, they decide to desert the ship and take their chances on the uncharted land of a tropical island.

Upon reaching the shores of the island, which they later learn is called Nuka Hiva, they are initially struck by the idyllic setting that greets them. This seems like paradise, adorned with lush foliage, bountiful fruits, and tranquil, crystalline water bodies. The cinematography beautifully captures the allure of the Pacific island, transforming it into a character in its own right.

However, their initial euphoria is quickly replaced with trepidation when they realize the island is home to two Polynesian tribes - the peace-loving Typees and the cannibalistic Happar. Further increasing their complexity is Fayaway, a radiant Polynesian girl played by lark-voiced Jane Powell, who fortunately is from the Typee tribe. As Abner inevitably becomes smitten with Fayaway, romance intertwines with peril.

Powell’s role of Fayaway becomes a refreshing addition that adds a layer of intrigue and warmth to the story. Her vibrant presence and stunning singing voice bring a different sort of magical realism to the film. On the other hand, Andrews as Abner does an excellent job portraying his character’s conflict, caught between his stirring love for Fayaway and the need to escape this dangerously paradise.

The supporting cast is also commendable, each character lending credibility to their roles, whether it is the noble but fierce Typee chief Mehevi (played by Arthur Shields) or the tyrannically harsh Captain Vangs. The tribal elements are well incorporated, ensuring the depiction of an authentic image of South Pacific tribal life in the 19th century.

Enchanted Island draws its strength from the juxtaposition of romance against a backdrop of nature's raw, sometimes harsh, beauty and an unpredictable tribal lifestyle. It raises the question: how far can a man go to make his escape, to survive, and more importantly, to love? It may be a movie rooted in the adventure genre, but at its core, it’s a human story that beautifully marries passion and peril in the middle of the Pacific, delivering a cinematic treat.

This film's music by Franz Waxman deserves a special mention. Waxman’s composition adds to the ambiance, painting the narrative with musical notes that reflect the derelict hope of sailors, the lure of an enchanting love, and the lingering dread of danger.

Notably, although Enchanted Island is based on Melville's novel, it is not a page-to-screen translation. It employs some creative liberties, shaping the plot to fit the cinematic canvas, while maintaining the soul of the original story. As a result, fans of the novel as well as those unfamiliar with it can both derive enjoyment and intrigue from the movie.

In conclusion, Enchanted Island is a film for those viewers who yearn for a taste of romantic adventure wrapped in the unpredictability of the wilderness. It is a movie that offers both tension and hope, positioning itself as an old-fashioned but still relevant exploration of human nature and survival, with a layer of romance to sweeten this exotic South Pacific tale.